National Register of Historic Places listings in Reading, Massachusetts facts for kids
Reading, Massachusetts, is a town with a rich history! Many of its old buildings and areas are so special that they are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This list helps protect important places in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, making sure they can be enjoyed for many years to come.
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What is the National Register of Historic Places?
The National Register of Historic Places (often called the NRHP) is like a special list of places in the United States that are important to history. These places could be buildings, neighborhoods, or even old objects. When a place is added to this list, it means it has a unique story or design that is worth saving.
It's not just about being old! To be on the NRHP, a place must meet certain rules. For example, it might be connected to important events, famous people, or show a special style of building. Being on the list helps people learn about the past and can sometimes help protect these places from being changed too much or torn down.
Exploring Historic Places in Reading
Reading, Massachusetts, has many buildings and even whole neighborhoods that are on the National Register. These places tell us about how people lived, worked, and built things a long time ago. Let's look at a few examples of these amazing historic spots!
Historic Buildings in Reading
- Ace Art Company: This building at 24 Gould Street was listed in 1985. It's an example of an old company building that played a part in Reading's past.
- Joseph Bancroft House: Located at 101 Lowell Street, this house is one of several Bancroft family homes on the list. It was added in 1984.
- Boston and Maine Railroad Depot: Found on Lincoln Street, this old train station was listed in 1984. Train stations were very important for travel and trade in the past!
- Highland School: This school building at 64 Middlesex Avenue was listed in 1984. It's cool because it now houses the Reading Public Library, so it's still a place for learning!
- Octagon House: You can find this unique house at 97 Pleasant Street. It was built in a special eight-sided shape, which was a popular style for some homes long ago. It was added to the list in 1984.
- Parker Tavern: This very old building at 103 Washington Street was listed way back in 1975. A "tavern" was like an inn or restaurant where travelers could stop for food and a place to rest.
- Pearl Street School: Another historic school, this one at 75 Pearl Street, was listed in 1997. Old school buildings often have interesting designs and stories about the students who learned there.
- Reading Municipal Building: This important town building at 49 Pleasant Street was listed in 1984. It's where many of the town's important decisions are made.
- Reading Municipal Light and Power Station: Located at 226 Ash Street, this building was once a power station for the town. It was listed in 1984 and shows how Reading got its electricity in the past.
Historic Districts in Reading
Sometimes, it's not just one building that's important, but a whole area! These areas are called "historic districts." They have many old buildings that together tell a story about how a neighborhood grew.
- Common Historic District: This district is roughly around Main, Highland, and Federal Streets. It was listed in 1985 and includes many important buildings that make up the heart of Reading.
- Woburn Street Historic District: This district covers Woburn Street from Temple Street to Summer Avenue. It was also listed in 1985 and shows a collection of historic homes and buildings along this street.
These historic places help us remember and appreciate Reading's long and interesting past!